On October 4, 2012, former actor Rüzgar Erkoçlar received his first testosterone injection, marking an important step in his gender affirmation. But when the media find out about his transition, his life is being pulled to shreds. Oppressive portrait of Turkey’s enormous transphobia.

‘I’ve always been a man,’ says Rüzgar Erkoçlar. ‘I don’t need anyone’s approval or acceptance.’ His journey to become a man – to become what he has always been – starts on 4 October 2012, when he receives his first testosterone injection. It’s a milestone that makes him shine with delight. The former actor is now happily working in a bakery and is surrounded by a loving family. His parents might struggle a bit to understand, but support him nonetheless.

But when the media get hold of his story, everything changes. Hostile talk shows and the gutter press can’t get enough of the ‘controversy’ and are intent to keep their self-made ‘scandal’ going. Rüzgar has a hard time shaking himself loose from it all, and the frenzy takes its toll. Winner of the Audience Award at IDFA.